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In his early years as a monk, Gurudev used to inspire himself by reciting this ecstatic poetry of the seventeenth century Jain monk Anandghan. Now, as a teacher, he again sang his poems, this time as a reminder to all that body, youth, and wealth were as fleeting as the moment. He inspired the young and strong to stop clinging to shadows and make-believe, but instead to use the body as an instrument for a meaningful purpose. Wealth, too, was to be understood as a transitory blessing, the natural outcome of one's previous acts of selflessness. It was not meant for unlimited accumulation and for self-aggrandizement. Instead, it was for sharing, just as a farmer shares his harvest.
When people understood the gist of his message, they opened their hearts and gave to various causes. It was not only money; it was understanding. They put themselves in the place of those who were suffering and could not help but be moved.
For example, early in 1963, a group of enthusiastic young men opened a one-room medical clinic to provide free health services for the poor in Malad, a suburb of Bombay. Supplies soon ran low. Space was inadequate. The men were not discouraged. They knew of Shree Chitrabhanuji and went to him for advice. Gurudev recognized the purity of their intention and suggested that they present their situation to Mr. Jayantilal Mangalla Sheth, trustee of a local Jain Society. Mr. Sheth was glad to respond with a very generous donation. Other philanthropists heard of the project, and additional thousands of rupees poured in. A new building was able to be constructed.
From a few inspired young men with a dream, a Health Home was formed. At its official opening on May 26, 1963, Gurudev went there on his vihar to give his blessings and a talk. He told the story of a poor woman who had fallen ill with an infection. The doctor had urged the village sheriff to be sure that she received medicine. Otherwise, he warned, the disease would surely spread.
"Nobody cared enough to take the doctor's advice and give help to the poor woman. Gradually, she wasted away and died. But by now, the germs which had infected her had
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